The Registrar of Companies (RoC), under the guidance of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), is set to introduce a new requirement mandating geo-tagging of registered offices of all companies, including private limited entities. Effective August 1, 2025, this initiative aims to enhance location-based verification, detect shell companies, and improve transparency in regulatory records. The directive will apply to both new incorporations and existing companies during their annual return or address change filings.

Under this mandate, companies must upload a photograph of their registered office along with GPS coordinates via the MCA21 portal. This information will be captured during the filing of e-Form INC-22 (Verification of Registered Office) or annual filings such as MGT-7 and AOC-4. MCA officials have clarified that the photo must include a visible nameplate of the company, and the location should be identifiable. The RoC will use this data to cross-verify physical presence with satellite mapping tools, enabling more robust compliance checks and reducing fraudulent registrations.

Industry observers have welcomed the move as a step toward digitized governance and improved corporate accountability, though some small businesses have raised concerns over internet access and logistical hurdles in remote areas. To ease the transition, the MCA is expected to release a user guide, mobile application support, and allow a grace period for existing companies to comply. Companies are advised to verify their registered office documentation, update records, and prepare for geo-tag verification to avoid disruptions in statutory filings.